Nickel & Nickel Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 (1.5L)

Appellation: Oakville, Napa Valley
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels (55% new, 45% once-used)
Harvest Dates: September 29 October 4, 2021
Release Date: Fall 2023
Skin Contact: 23 days
First Vintage: 2000

Vineyard Description:
The eight-and-a-half-acre Branding Iron Vineyard, located in western Oakville near the Mayacamas Mountains, benefits from well-drained clay loam soil and a warm climate. The vineyards sun exposure, both in the morning and afternoon, allows for extended hang time and perfect ripening of the fruit.

Harvest Notes:
The 2021 growing season saw very little winter rain, leading to drought conditions. With an equally dry spring and a notably windy May, budbreak and bloom occurred early. Mild summer temperatures allowed the grapes to ripen slowly, leading to small but intensely flavored fruit. By harvest, the quality observed in the vineyard was carried through to the winery, resulting in a standout vintage.

Tasting Notes:
Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon offers compelling black cherry and dried herb aromatics. The wine features deep, sappy fruit flavors with a round, broad palate and intense focus. The tannins are well-structured, complemented by warm toasted oak, leading to an extended and satisfying finish.

Key Features:

• Sourced from the historic Oakville region, known for producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Aged for 18 months in a combination of new and once-used French oak barrels, adding layers of complexity.
• Limited production, ideal for collectors or special occasions.

How to Enjoy:

• Neat: Enjoy this wine at cellar temperature to fully appreciate its rich aromas and flavors.
• Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with hearty dishes such as grilled steak, roasted lamb, or mushroom risotto.

FAQ Section:

1. What makes the 2021 vintage of Branding Iron Cabernet Sauvignon special?
   The 2021 growing season offered ideal conditions with small, intensely flavored grapes. The wine showcases concentrated flavors and a rich texture, a hallmark of Oakville Cabernet Sauvignon.

2. How is the wine aged?
   The wine spends 18 months aging in French oak barrels, 55% of which are new, providing structure and enhancing the wine’s complexity with notes of oak and toast.

3. What are the tasting notes?
   Expect bold black cherry and dried herb aromas, sappy fruit on the palate with focused intensity, and a long, satisfying finish with toasty oak and fine tannins.

4. When is the best time to drink this wine?
   This wine can be enjoyed now for its approachable fruit flavors, but it will also benefit from aging for 8-10 years to develop even more complexity.